Should I Get A Tankless or a Regular Gas Water Heater For My Home?

revelationplumbing5
6 days ago
4 min read

should I install and tankless water heater or a regular water heater?

Tankless vs. Regular Gas Water Heaters: Which One Is Right for My Home?

If you’re reading this, you’re probably thinking your water heater is on its last leg and it’s time to replace it—or maybe you just bought a new home and realized the water heater is old and might not last much longer.

Either way, I want to help you make the best decision possible.

In this blog, we’re going to break down the differences between tankless gas water heaters and traditional gas water heaters with tanks so you can decide which is right for you and your family.

What’s the Difference Between Tankless and Traditional Gas Water Heaters?

Traditional Gas Water Heaters (Storage Tank)

These are the water heaters most people are familiar with. They store and heat 30-50+ gallons of water in a big metal tank in your basement or utility room. The gas burner kicks on periodically to keep the water hot all day, whether you’re using it or not.

✅ Pros:

Lower upfront cost
Easier installation if replacing an existing tank system
Reliable hot water for multiple fixtures if sized properly

❌ Cons:

Always working to keep water hot, using gas energy 24/7 even when you’re sleeping or on vacation
Shorter lifespan: typically 8-12 years
When they fail, they often rust through and leak, dumping 40-50 gallons of dirty water onto your basement floor without warning

Gas Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters, also called on-demand water heaters, heat water instantly as it flows through the unit. No tank needed.

✅ Pros:

Unlimited hot water – never run out mid-shower
Tax credits and rebates – Many areas offer incentives for installing energy-efficient tankless systems
Longer lifespan – often 15-20 years with proper maintenance
Compact design – frees up valuable space in your basement or utility closet
More energy-efficient since they only heat water when you actually need it
Replacement costs are much cheaper when upgrading your tankless

comparing the size difference between a tankless water heater and a tank type 40 gallon water heater — Size Comparison

❌ Cons:

Higher upfront cost
Installation may require gas line upgrades or venting changes
If not sized properly, simultaneous hot water use at multiple fixtures can be limited (something we always ensure is right for your home)

How Long Do Gas Water Heaters Last?

Traditional tank gas water heaters: ~8-12 years
Gas tankless water heaters: ~15-20 years

💡 Tip from the field:If your tank water heater is 8+ years old, it’s nearing the end of its life. Inside, rust builds up and eventually eats through the tank wall. Once that happens, you could wake up to a basement or utility room full of dirty water.

How Do I Know If My Water Heater Is Going Bad?

Here are some signs to watch out for:

🚨 Rusty or tinted water coming from your taps

🚨 Rumbling or popping noises – usually caused by hardened sediment buildup

🚨 Water pooling around the base of your tank – even small leaks mean trouble

🚨 Hot water runs out faster than before

🚨 Age – if your unit is over 10 years old, replacement is often the safest choice

3 Tips to Maximize the Life of Your Water Heater

Flush the Tank Annually – Sediment buildup at the bottom of your tank can cause corrosion and reduce heating efficiency. Flushing your water heater each year keeps it clean and operating smoothly.
Check the Anode Rod Regularly – Inspect and replace the anode rod every 3-5 years to prevent rust from corroding the inside of your tank, which is a leading cause of water heater failure.
Install a Water Softener – Hard water causes mineral buildup inside your water heater, reducing its lifespan and efficiency. Installing a water softener protects your tank from scale buildup and keeps it running longer. Learn more about water softeners here.

Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for Me?

✅ It might be if you:

Want endless hot water for showers, soaking tubs, or back-to-back usage
Value energy efficiency and lower utility bills
Plan to stay in your home long-term to get the full return on your investment
Want to free up space by removing that giant metal tank in your basement

🔧 Important note: Tankless water heaters must be properly sized based on your household’s peak hot water demand. We always do a full assessment to ensure your system delivers exactly what you need.

Why Replacing Your Water Heater Before It Fails Matters

Waiting until your water heater fails can lead to:

❌ Flooded basements and costly cleanup

❌ Emergency replacement fees

❌ Days without hot water if installation requires gas line upgrades or venting changes

Replacing your water heater proactively gives you peace of mind knowing you’ve protected your home and your family’s comfort.

Final Thoughts: Tankless vs. Traditional Gas Water Heaters

Both types of water heaters have their place.

Choose tankless if you want unlimited hot water, a longer lifespan, tax credits, and lower energy costs.
Choose traditional if upfront cost is a big factor and you want an easy swap for your existing tank.

Need Help Choosing the Right Water Heater for Your Home?

At Revelation Plumbing, we’ve helped countless homeowners upgrade their water heaters with confidence. Call us today for a free in-home consultation. We’ll check the condition of your current water heater, discuss your hot water needs, and give you honest recommendations so you can avoid surprises and enjoy reliable hot water every day.